Mythbuster: The Truth About Prayer

Duane Vander Klok

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

How many of us have prayed at least once in our lives? How many of us pray regularly? Prayer is a spiritual discipline that many of us may not prioritize, but it is a powerful way to connect with God!

But why does there seem to be a gap between what the Bible says and what most people experience today? Let’s talk about a few myths that we may be believing about prayer that stop us from experiencing God’s fullness today.

Myth #1: Prayer is an empty obligation or a task on a to-do list.
If you’re believing this myth, you are missing out on the connection and fellowship that God wants to have with you! Imagine scheduling a weekly lunch with a friend who didn’t want to be there with you. God isn’t looking for you to clock in and clock out of your time with Him. He wants to comfort, encourage, and have fellowship with you. Don’t miss out on connecting with Him!

Myth #2: Your prayers don’t have any power.
Your prayers not only allow you to connect with God, they also have power. We often believe that God already has everything figured out, but He wants to partner with you to bring His Kingdom to earth. Our prayers have a role to play!

Myth #3: Your prayers are a to-do list for God.
We do not need to beg Him to provide for our needs – He already knows them! He is a good Father who knows how to care for His children. Matthew 7:11 says, If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!

See, prayer isn’t an empty task, powerless, or begging God to fulfill our needs. Instead, it is an opportunity to partner with God and what He is doing here on earth!